This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.
10/10 Excellent
14 May 2010
Wonderful apartment with amazing Matterhorn views
Chalet Altesse is a modern, beautiful apartment located in the Winkelmatten area of Zermatt (closest to the Matterhorn). As such, all four apartments have stunning, uninterrupted views of the Matterhorn from the lounge / dining area.
We stayed in the penthouse for 2 weeks during August 2009 having previously stayed in the Mont Cervin Palace (5*) and Monte Rosa (4*) hotels the previous 2 years. With 2 children under 10 we chose an apartment to get more space and to have the option to cook. However, we didn't want to compromise on quality. We clearly love Zermatt, which is a great summer holiday destination for our energetic / active kids. It is also car free (except for small electric vehicles / taxis used by local businesses / hotels). We have re-booked the Altesse for another two weeks this year.
The Altesse is a 10 minute taxi ride from the train station / centre of Zermatt and a 20 minute walk to the resort centre for shops, larger supermarkets and many restaurants. If you have a lift pass the local buses are free and there is a stop a few minutes from the apartment, which is also near a local supermarket and kids playground.
The penthouse has vaulted wooden ceilings. The lounge / dining room area faces the Matterhorn through floor to ceiling windows (same for other apartments). I can't think of a better view for breakfast! The kitchen is very well equipped.
The apartment is maintained to a high standard and was immaculately clean. It is also cleaned mid-week. It has a flat screen TV, DVD and CD player, which is good for a family with young children.
The lounge has a log fire and a full length balcony to admire the view / catch some sun. The star filled night skies are amazing and we even saw some shooting stars.
The property is managed by the owners' daughter, Julia, who is wonderful: very friendly, attentive and helpful. She even arranged a birthday cake to be made in Zermatt for our son and for it to be delivered to the apartment.
For adults the building has a large sauna, steam room and relaxation area in the basement.
The chalet has a lift which takes you to the sauna and ski room in the basement.
Summer activities for kids: try the nearby tree top adventure park (harnesses supplied) including zip wire rides over the river; scooter rides down the ski runs; and walks. We climb with a guide. A must do is the gorge trip (guide needed).
Restaurants: Zum See - amazing (Altesse's owners). The nearby Sonnmatten is good.
